Shady Canyon Trail

Shady Canyon Trail is a 7.8 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Irvine, CA that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

The path was clear and easy to follow. Had both paved and dirt paths. The views were great and if you start at Shady Canyon you can walk all the way to quail hill, do that and add miles onto your hike before you turn around to go back. Scenery was beautiful around dusk/sunset!

I truly enjoyed hiking the trail this morning. It's a well kept trail with plenty of natural Southern California nature to enjoy. It does have some moderate hills, but like it is said "what goes up, must come down" which can lead to relief. Contrary to the trails name, "Shady Canyon trail" there is absolutely no shade, so I recommend one brings a hat and lots of water; especially, if one brings their 4 legged child. Looking forward to running this trail next weekend. Happy trailing

Short hike through the grounds of a gated residential community. The trail is well marked and there is a separate paved path for bikes. Good for walking the dog or jogging. There is very little shade, despite the name of the trail, so plan to wear sun screen if you burn easily.

Donovan S.

Great, easy hike. Awesome for trail running, and had a paved road, separate from pedestrian walkway, for biking. Dog friendly, and had drinking fountains. Although, my friend and I got lost and could joy find the trail head from the directions given on the map. Park in the recreation center off sunny hill and shady canyon.

Nice easy hike in Irvine. Did this in the evening. Not something you would call a mountain hike, but a hill hike I guess. The dirt trail runs along a paved bike road and crosses a few bridge. I did this one to Turtle Rock Park which is another mile and a half or so. It's a good small conditioning trail during weekdays for those that only have time for big weekend hikes. Views of the city below at night made it worth it

Sweet smell of sage mixed with an ocean breeze on this trail! The first part of the hike is a calf burn uphill, but turn around and look back at the city, great view. The rest of the hike is equal parts flat and easy up and down. This is where OC works out. You will see runners, cyclists, dog walkers, and an occasional horse here. There is a bit of running water in the stream and a couple ponds. Wild purple artichokes were everywhere on this day 6-12-12 :)